Whether you're launching a new business or reinvigorating an existing brand, maintaining a successful PR and marketing plan is essential to long-term entrepreneurial growth. Chicago is a national leader in marketing and PR and is home to some of the nation's top agencies specializing in business development. Here are some of the top local PR and marketing agencies that are revolutionizing the field with innovative branding solutions.
chicago star media
Chicago Star Media is paving the way for a new approach to marketing services in Chicago, combining an in-house newsroom with comprehensive marketing services for professional brand building. Chicago Star's branded content services cover marketing and branding, professional editorial services, copywriting, event planning, and PR.
In the past, the company has collaborated with notable clients such as Navy Pier, Mariano's, and the Joffrey Ballet. Additionally, the Chicago Star recently partnered with healthcare staffing firm Curative Talent to help improve the Texas-based company's brand image.
In December, the Chicago Star partnered with international orthodontic company Impress to host the “Dress to Impress Holiday Bash,” where company officials, We gathered local business leaders and influencers. While enjoying the fun event, guests had the opportunity to tour Wicker Park's Impress facility and learn more about the company's custom orthodontic services.
Chicago Star Media's Christkindlmarket mug launch campaign
Chicago Star won two awards for Branded Content Services in 2024. In February, The Manifest named Chicago Star one of Chicago's Most Regarded and Recommended Marketing Strategy Leaders. In addition, Chicago Star received a Nettie Award in 2023 for its branding campaign work with Christkindlmarket.
Check out Chicago Star's digital portfolio for a complete list of branded content services.
heron agency
Heron Agency is a Chicago-based lifestyle communications group specializing in strategic marketing campaigns for the hospitality sector, arts, entertainment, and music. Heron Agency strives to coordinate PR, media planning, and social media outreach to drive revenue. Heron Agency has worked with Hilton, Jewel-Osco, City Winery, and Chicago Theater.
Mekky's media relations
Aerial photo of Mekky Media Relations campaign featuring Red Bull F1 car, September 20, 2023
Since launching in 2016, PR agency Mekky Media Relations has amassed a prestigious client base including Red Bull and the American Library Association. Mekky's all-in-one services include PR strategy, event promotion, influencer collaboration, content creation, and media training. Mekky Media Relations works with businesses to create innovative promotional strategies that drive results.
In 2023, Mekky caught the attention of the city with a viral marketing event ahead of the F1 Red Bull Showrun. A unique marketing campaign featured a Red Bull F1 car at his CTA track in the Loop, drawing crowds and generating buzz on social media ahead of the event.
color jar
ColorJar of Fulton Market is a full-service branding and design firm that has been driving business growth for prominent business leaders for over 15 years. ColorJar's clients include Google, Navy Pier, and Lettuce Entertain You. The company specializes in brand management, logo and web design, creative campaigns and internal communications.
walker sands
Since 2001, Walker Sands has provided Chicago businesses with custom marketing strategies tailored to their development needs. With over 170 employees and offices nationwide, Walker Sands' strong network specializes in content marketing, SEO services, web design, product launches, and media relations. Walker Sands was ranked No. 7 on Manifesto's 2024 list of Top 100 PR Consultants in Chicago, receiving high marks for timeliness, exceptional service, and value.
